Magellan Aerospace and Aequs Partner to Boost India's Aircraft Engine MRO Sector

In a strategic move set to bolster India's aviation industry, Canadian aerospace major Magellan Aerospace has announced a partnership with Aequs Private Limited to develop an aircraft engine Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility. This new venture will be situated within Aequs' Belagavi Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Karnataka, aiming to cater to both civil and military aircraft engines.

The announcement, made during the Farnborough International Airshow in the UK, aligns with the Indian government's recent incentives to enhance MRO activities in the country. This collaboration is expected to leverage the infrastructural strengths and cost advantages of the Belagavi SEZ, a hub known for its robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.

Magellan Aerospace, a prominent player listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange, specializes in providing complex assemblies and systems solutions to aircraft and engine manufacturers as well as defense and space agencies globally. The company has a longstanding relationship with Aequs, dating back to 2008 when they established the Aerospace Processing India (API) plant, a joint venture approved by both Airbus and Boeing. This plant has since become the largest in India, processing over 1.5 million parts annually.

The new MRO facility is anticipated to significantly alleviate the existing capacity constraints in the region. It will offer comprehensive services including engine stripping, rebuilding, and testing. Aravind Melligeri, Chairman and CEO of Aequs, highlighted the success of their ongoing partnership with Magellan and expressed optimism about this new venture. "It is only logical we explore further opportunities to service the fast-growing business, civil and military aviation industry in India," he stated.

Phillip Underwood, President and CEO of Magellan Aerospace, emphasized the potential of this venture to meet the growing needs of MRO customers with cost-effective and high-quality solutions. He pointed out that India's aerospace sector has seen substantial growth over the past decade, driven by initiatives like Make-in-India and the UDAN Scheme, along with increasing air traffic. This surge in demand makes India one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally.

The partnership between Magellan and Aequs is poised to tap into this burgeoning market. By focusing on strategic initiatives and infrastructure development, the facility aims to position itself as a key player in the MRO sector, catering to both domestic and international clients. Magellan's global presence and expertise, combined with Aequs' integrated aerospace manufacturing capabilities, are expected to create a formidable synergy in this venture.

As India continues to expand its aviation capabilities, the establishment of this MRO facility marks a significant step towards self-reliance in aircraft maintenance and repair. The collaboration between Magellan Aerospace and Aequs not only underscores their commitment to India's aviation growth but also sets the stage for further advancements in the sector.